My journey as an artist has been fueled by a desire to make a positive impact on the world through design. This passion traces back to elementary school when I recognized the teachings of historical omissions surrounding black history. Motivated by this realization, I made a personal commitment to incorporate topics related to the black community into my school projects, sparking conversations and raising awareness throughout my educational journey. Continuing my studies, I understood that the lack of representation and acknowledgment of black history extended beyond the classroom, affecting society as a whole. This awakening fueled my sense of purpose, and I realized the power of art to celebrate the beauty of the black community and shed light on social injustices. In high school, I actively pursued this goal with the support of the Black Student Union, using my artistic talents to initiate dialogues and bring attention to pressing issues. My commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the classroom, as demonstrated through my active involvement in various student organizations. As a dedicated member of the Student Alumni Association, I have helped organize events and engage with alumni, I witnessed the power of community and the importance of giving back. Participating in the Black Student Association and College Curls has allowed me to combine my passion for design with my dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity. By volunteering my design skills for their events and campaigns, I have contributed to raising awareness of social issues and celebrating the beauty of diverse cultures. As an aspiring graphic design director, I firmly believe that art can be a powerful tool to challenge perceptions, break barriers, and foster empathy among people from different walks of life. I am dedicated to using my creative talent to advocate for causes that matter deeply to me, such as supporting Black-owned companies, uplifting the Black community, and promoting social justice initiatives. I hope to collaborate with non-profit organizations that align with my values. By donating my time and artistic skills, I aim to contribute to campaigns and initiatives that advocate for social justice and equality. My passion for making a positive impact through design has been a driving force in my artistic journey. From challenging historical inaccuracies to using art as a means to celebrate the beauty of the black community and advocate for social justice, I am dedicated to creating a lasting impact on society.

As a low-income student striving for a high-quality education, my journey has been filled with challenges and opportunities that have shaped me into the person I am today. Among my greatest achievements to date, getting accepted into the BFA Graphic Design program stands out as a defining moment in my life. This accomplishment not only validated my passion for art and design but also taught me invaluable lessons about myself and my potential to create a positive impact on the world through graphic design. The journey to secure a place in the BFA Graphic Design program was arduous and highly competitive. With 52 applicants vying for only 20 spots, the process demanded a level of dedication and strength that I never knew I possessed. Despite the daunting odds, I persevered, putting my heart and soul into my application portfolio. The experience taught me the importance of hard work, discipline, and the value of resilience in the face of adversity. As I entered the program, I was struck by the immense workload and the realization that I was surrounded by equally talented and skilled individuals. While this initially intimidated me, it ultimately motivated me to prove my worth as a graphic designer. I learned to embrace collaboration, seeking feedback from peers and mentors, which significantly improved the quality of my work. Although I knew not getting into the program didn’t mean I would never be a graphic designer, remembering that I wanted to be one since the 8th grade thinking about all the courses and projects I did over the years reminded me to keep pushing forward. Moreover, I discovered the power of self-assurance, understanding that my unique perspective and experiences could enrich my designs and set me apart from others. This journey taught me that graphic design is not merely a medium for creative expression; it is a powerful tool for social change. I discovered my passion for using design as a means to uplift marginalized communities, particularly the Black community. I aspire to become a graphic design director, leading projects that champion social justice, support Black-owned companies, and uplift the voices of marginalized communities. In the future, I envision a world where my art is a catalyst for positive change and empowerment. I want to see my designs displayed prominently, promoting and celebrating the Black community in a positive light while shedding light on pressing social justice issues. I hope to use my creativity and artistic skills to tackle important challenges and foster a more inclusive and equitable society. This scholarship will not only impact my life but also the lives of those I aim to serve through my work. It will serve as a symbol of hope and determination for other aspiring artists from low-income backgrounds, showing them that, with determination and perseverance, they too can achieve their dreams despite the barriers they face. My acceptance into the BFA Graphic Design program stands as a testament to my resilience, passion, and dedication. Through this experience, I learned the power of graphic design as a tool for social change and how it can be utilized to uplift the voices of marginalized communities. With the WCEJ Thornton Foundation Low-Income Scholarship, I hope to take one step closer to fulfilling my dream of becoming a graphic design director and creating a positive impact on society through my art. Together, we can break down barriers and create a future where education is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status. Thank you for considering my application.

On February 10th, 2017, the Netflix series, Abstract: The Art of Design, aired its first episode. The series highlighted top designers whose work is admired by the world and takes a look into their lives. Episode 6, was about a graphic designer names Paula Scher, who I couldn’t help but be intrigued by. Her work and the way Scher viewed the world of design amazed me, so much that I told my parents the same day I watched the episode, that I wanted to be a graphic designer. I wanted to do exactly what Paula Scher did and is still doing. As an African American girl, I wanted to do a little bit more, and I want to also allow the world to see the beauty of the black community’s culture in America and also discuss injustices and problems the community faces through my work. That was 8th grade. And I have been working on my skills as a graphic designer every year since then, making sure I reach that goal. Going to college was something I always worked hard for and going to college for graphic design was something I strived for. During my high school years, I was given the opportunity to create about four designs for murals around the campus, which has always been a dream of mine, to leave my mark somewhere where hundreds to thousands of people walk. I was so excited to create so many murals before my career as an artist started. Unfortunately, COVID came and I was unable to start any of the mural projects. I wanted to go to college for art because of the unique learning experience of learning art on an academic level and being taught by successful people in the industry. I also wanted to also go to college to also build connections with other fellow artists, and be able to achieve my dreams of creating murals. A scholarship will help me with both my educational goals and career goals. I was fortunate enough to receive some financial aid; however, being an art major spending hundreds of dollars on art supplies, on top of books for my general class each semester, starts to take a toll. A scholarship will help me with my educational goals and help me afford to continue getting a graphic design degree and graduate on time. I am very passionate about art, especially graphic design. Being able to one day have my artwork reach millions of people and show the world the beauty of the black community would be amazing. Watching Episode 6 of Abstract: The Art of Design over and over again throughout the years and going to college now as a graphic design major makes the dream more attainable. A scholarship will help me be one step closer to that goal, without having to stress about college finances.

Art and graphic design are not merely creative outlets for me; they are essential aspects of my identity and the means through which I can freely express myself. Art has the incredible power to tell stories, evoke emotions, and ignite conversations. For me, it has always been something where I can freely explore my imagination, thoughts, and emotions; it is a way of life—a means of self-expression and a platform to address important societal issues. Ever since I was in fourth grade, I made it my mission to use my art to speak up about black culture and social justice. It's my purpose as an artist to shed light on the struggles and triumphs of the black community through my artwork. Like the iconic activist and writer W.E.B. Du Bois said, “I stand in utter shamelessness and say that whatever art I have for writing has been used always for propaganda for gaining the right of Black folk to love and enjoy.”, this statement is something I hold dear to me when it comes to art. When I learned about the Jason L. Berry Scholarship, I knew that it perfectly aligned with my vision and goals as an artist and graphic designer. Jason L. Berry's life was a testament to the transformative power of art, and his commitment to inspiring others through creativity, even in the face of adversity, deeply resonates with me. In the same vein, I am dedicated to using my artistic and graphic design talents to uplift and empower individuals who have been marginalized by society, giving a voice to those who have been silenced. As a BIPOC student, I am acutely aware of the lack of representation in the creative industry, particularly in graphic design. Through my volunteer experiences, with the by school’s black student union and graphic design club, I have actively sought to bridge this gap by engaging with underrepresented communities, promoting workshops by creating posters, and providing mentorship to aspiring young artists and designers. I firmly believe that diversity in the creative field enriches the world with fresh perspectives and narratives that challenge conventional norms. I would like to start my art journey with a digital piece I created in my sophomore year in high school. I believe this was the start of me realizing I could one day be a graphic designer, with my designs physically in front of people and in their hands, as this was the first digital design I created that I had printed on glass and even sold online. One of my most current pieces is a graphite artwork I created that encouraged me to continue on in this beautiful journey as an artist and reminded me that I can give the world beautiful messages about my community through my art. Art and graphic design have become inseparable elements of my passion for self-expression and advocacy. They provide me with the means to celebrate the vibrant culture of the black community while also serving as powerful instruments for social justice. The Jason L. Berry Scholarship represents a unique opportunity to combine my love for art and graphic design with my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others and the world at large. By leveraging these creative disciplines, I aim to honor the legacy of Jason L. Berry, inspire future generations, and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

My deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on the world through design traces back to a pivotal moment in fourth grade. During a classroom discussion about Christopher Columbus, I was taken aback when one of my classmates argued that he had indeed discovered America, unaware of the historical inaccuracies. Around this time I realized a lot of information was overlooked, particularly concerning the Civil Rights Movement and the harsh realities of slavery. Motivated by this realization, I made a personal commitment to incorporate topics related to the black community into my school projects, starting from that year and continuing throughout my high school years. As I delved deeper into my studies, I realized that the lack of representation and acknowledgment of black history extended far beyond the confines of the classroom. It permeated society as a whole. This awakening fueled my sense of purpose and I recognized the power of art to celebrate the beauty of the black community and shed light on social injustices. In high school, I actively pursued this goal with the support of the Black Student Union, using my artistic talents to spark conversations and raise awareness about pressing issues. This formative experience ignited my passion for leveraging design as a means of promoting social change. Through my art, I aim to challenge prevailing narratives, initiate dialogues, and foster a more inclusive society. By addressing historical gaps and exposing social injustices, I strive to make a lasting impact on how the world perceives and understands the experiences of marginalized communities. Beyond the classroom, my commitment to making a positive impact extends to my active involvement in various student organizations. As a dedicated member of the Student Alumni Association, I have had the opportunity to volunteer and contribute to initiatives that foster a sense of belonging and pride among the student body. Through organizing events and engaging with alumni, I have witnessed firsthand the power of community and the importance of giving back. Additionally, my participation in the Black Student Association and College Curls has allowed me to combine my passion for design with my dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity. These organizations provide a platform for students to voice their experiences and concerns while fostering a supportive environment. Through volunteering my design skills for their events and campaigns, I have contributed to raising awareness of social issues and celebrating the beauty of diverse cultures. By actively engaging in these student organizations, I not only stay informed about industry trends and real-world applications of design principles but also gain valuable insights into the needs and perspectives of marginalized communities. This involvement further fuels my determination to create designs that challenge norms, elevate underrepresented voices, and inspire positive change. Design has always fascinated me with its ability to communicate beyond words and create a lasting impact. As I embark on my journey as a graphic designer, I am driven by the immense potential of design to not only showcase the beauty of my culture but also shed light on the social injustices faced by the black community. Through my passion, experiences, and unwavering commitment, I am determined to utilize design as a means of challenging perceptions, telling stories, and contributing to a more equitable and just society.

As a passionate lover of science fiction and futurism, I have always been captivated by the power of visual storytelling and its ability to transport us to worlds beyond our own. It is through the lens of animation and graphic design that I have found my creative voice, allowing me to merge my fascination with science and art into a cohesive and exhilarating career path. The intersection of these fields has fueled my desire to pursue a future in visual effects, where I hope to contribute to the evolving landscape of film and media. While graphic design, animation, and visual effects are often perceived as low-paying and low-value careers, I firmly believe that they possess immense potential for success and innovation. As technology advances and storytelling techniques evolve, the demand for skilled artists who can bring imagination to life is rising. The impact of visual effects in movies and the growing significance of animation in various industries have solidified the importance of these creative disciplines. Science, specifically astronomy has played a fundamental role in shaping my passion for animation and graphic design. It has fueled my imagination, inspiring me to explore the possibilities that lie beyond the boundaries of reality. The scientific discoveries in space and technological advancements of our time have opened new doors for artistic expression, allowing me to envision and create previously impossible worlds. Retrofuturism has always been my favorite art movement because it represents how artists, engineers, and architects used their imagination as the world anticipated what the future would look like. The movement has always reminded me to always think about what can be done differently and how can a design be modern for today but also remain up-to-date in the future. The emergence of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies has been another thing that has changed how I perceive and experience visual art. By merging scientific principles with artistic vision, these mediums offer endless possibilities for storytelling and immersive experiences. This convergence has fueled my desire to push the boundaries of traditional animation and graphic design, incorporating cutting-edge techniques to create captivating narratives. Moreover, science has provided me with a deep appreciation for the importance of research and attention to detail. Whether designing futuristic cityscapes or animating complex characters, understanding scientific principles and applying them to my creations has been instrumental in achieving authenticity and believability. By constantly seeking knowledge, experimenting with new techniques, and staying updated on scientific advancements, I strive to enhance the quality and impact of my work. The field of science has undeniably influenced my choice to pursue animation and graphic design. Its ability to inspire awe and curiosity has driven me to embrace the power of visual storytelling and its potential to shape the future. With the support of scholarships like this one, I am confident that I can further develop my skills, contribute to the advancement of visual effects, and bring the worlds of science and art together in innovative and meaningful ways. By encouraging and assisting the next generation of aspiring artists, we can foster a vibrant and thriving industry that continues to push the boundaries of imagination.

Art is a powerful medium that speaks volumes, evokes feelings, and sparks conversations. It has always been my refuge—a place where I can unleash my imagination, thoughts, and emotions. Art is not just a hobby; it's a way of life—a means of self-expression and a platform to address important social issues. In this essay, I want to take you on a journey through one of my favorite art pieces—an 18" x 24" graphite trompe l'oeil creation—and share how it has fueled my passion for art that creates awareness, sparks dialogue and brings positive change. As a graphic design major, I had to take some introductory courses that focused on traditional art. Traditional art forms like painting, drawing, graphite, and charcoal have always been my go-to for relaxation. So, being able to take classes and dive into these mediums made my heart sing. As someone who usually leans towards abstract and nonrealistic art, venturing into the world of realism with a graphite trompe l'oeil piece for my Drawing I class, was like stepping into uncharted territory. It was both strange and exciting to create something so realistic on a larger scale. But you know what? I surprised myself. Capturing intricate details and bringing subjects to life came naturally to me. It was a moment of realization, a turning point that made me crave more than just graphic design. I wanted to explore mixed-media art and expand my artistic horizons. Creating the graphite trompe l'oeil piece was a revelation. It ignited my desire to blend different art forms and mediums. I envisioned becoming a mixed-media artist, combining traditional art with digital techniques. I wanted to create art that catches the eye and sparks conversations. This project solidified my conviction to follow this unique path. Ever since the fourth grade, I've been on a mission to use my art as a voice for black culture and social justice. It's my purpose as an artist to shed light on the struggles and triumphs of the black community. For this particular project, I wanted to focus on an important aspect that often goes unnoticed in the black community—self-care. To bring this to life, I chose one of my favorite self-care books, "Spiritual Self Care for Black Women: A Spiritual Journal for Self-Discovery," as the centerpiece of my artwork. Surrounding the book, I placed a mason jar filled with ice water to symbolize the significance of water in everyone’s overall health, and in the bottom left corner, there's a queen of hearts card, reflecting the viewer and reminding black women that they are important, deserving of self-care, and should always treat themselves with love and kindness. Through this art piece, I aim to shine a spotlight on the vital role of self-care in the lives of black women. They face unique challenges and systemic barriers that often result in increased stress, trauma, and mental health issues. Especially in the current social climate, conversations about self-care within the black community are more important than ever. I hope that my piece raises awareness, encourages dialogue, and emphasizes the healing and empowering nature of self-care for black women. My graphite trompe l'oeil piece signifies a personal and artistic transformation. It ignited a passion for realism and the merging of different art forms. I strive to express my culture and address social issues and this piece encouraged me to do just that as a career. The Isaac Lee Memorial Arts Scholarship would provide financial support and encourage me to pursue my dreams of making meaningful art and creating positive change.